This fungus is called Candida Albicans and at normal levels - when controlled by good bacteria and your immune system ”“ it’s harmless. However, if an imbalance occurs, an overgrowth of that fungus is very likely and that’s what causes the yeast infection.

Once the infection appears, there are nasty symptoms signalling it - including itching, discomfort and redness. Initially you may be thinking that it’s an STD or an infection you may have gotten from using public toilets. And that assumption is valid to a certain degree, as there are common symptoms, but if you are sure it is a yeast infection, then there are some things you can do at home to deal with it.

1) There are some common herbs, foods and substances that can often be found in a person's garden or kitchen that can be very effective at treating yeast infections. Garlic, for example is a powerful natural healer, it is anti fungal and anti bacterial and can be used for all sorts of problems including this one. Use a clove of garlic peeled as a suppository before you go to bed by wrapping it in gauze. Tie a string to one end so it is easy to pull out the next morning. Do this for two to three nights and you will see results.

2) Yogurt is a very popular natural remedy amongst sufferers. The yogurt should be the kind that has good bacteria in it, probiotic or live cultures. You want the good bacteria lactobacillus acidophilus in it, and it must be sugar free, as sugar just feeds the infection. The yogurt will replenish or top up the good bacteria you need to fight the fungus.

3) Tea tree oil is another kind of homeopathic cure for candida. However, the rules when it comes to applying it are a lot more severe ”“ meaning that it should definitely be diluted and not used “as it is”. One such “recipe” is mixing 1 teaspoon of rubbing alcohol with 1 of tea tree oil and 10 drops of water; the resulted ointment can then be applied directly on the affected area ”“ and results shouldn’t take longer than a week to appear. These are just a few hints on trying to deal with a yeast infection the natural way; many people prefer these kinds of treatments; however, before taking any action you should really see a specialist.